Despite my cousin living in the Ullswater area for years I am ashamed to say that we’ve never made it to the Lake District, that is until last month. My Mum turned 60 this year and it was decided that the Lakes would be the location for her big birthday bash. Then a few months ago the Rock My Style team were invited to be guests at the Lakeside Hotel in Windermere, so I jumped at the chance to combine the two.

Windermere

After a particularly horrendous drive up the M6, James and I arrived three hours later than expected but we were met by the extremely friendly staff at the Lakeside Hotel who were only too happy to give us a tour of the hotel, guiding us through the bar and brasserie and along to the spa.
A boutique hotel this is not, however The Lakeside is a traditional country house style hotel with modern amenities; a luxurious spa, elaborate curtains, plush carpets and an air of grandeur that makes you feel transported back to a bygone era. The hotel is situated right on the edge of Windermere and our sumptuous room directly overlooked the lake. Just glancing out of the sash window beyond the jetty made us feel relaxed straight away.

The advertised price for dinner (£48 for 3 courses) may seem a little expensive although the hotel offers many promotions on bed, breakfast and evening meal, as well as other eating options in the Ruskins brasserie. There were some really nice extra touches such as bread cut directly at the table on a fancy trolley and one of the most extensive wine lists I have ever seen! Even though we arrived after the usual dinner service the staff were still very attentive and really informal, and we tucked into our venison and salmon mains. (Different dishes obviously.) Shattered after the long journey, we declined coffee in the conservatory and instead sank into the extremely comfy bed and slipped into a deep slumber.

The breakfast menu had an ample selection of warm meals, as well as a whole array of cereals, danish pastries and fruit. I went for the boiled eggs (and am pleased to report that the Lakeside Hotel have well and truly mastered the art of the dippy egg).
After breakfast we had a stroll of the pretty grounds (where guests and non-residents can enjoy afternoon tea) and then donned our life jackets to take their rowing boat out on the Lake. For just £5 for half an hour guests can hire the vessel and join the other boats out on Windermere. It was utterly idyllic on a Friday morning with just the sound of the birds (and a few sheep) to add to the tranquil setting.

The relaxation continued as we headed to the spa for a spot of pampering. Guests have full use of the 17 metre pool, jacuzzi, sauna and steam rooms as well as the full gym. The hotel also offer spa days and treatments for non-residents too and there’s an extensive list of treatments that you can indulge in. Despite a whole load of protesting, I urged James to have his first facial while I chose a mini-manicure. We were both really happy with the quality of the treatments and once again enjoyed the friendly hospitality of the staff. I have a feeling this will be the first of many facials for James… We left the hotel feeling revived and refreshed with our stressful drive a distant memory.

Windermere Cruise Boats sail from outside the hotel, and the Aquarium is just a few metres away. The area around the lake is perfect for walks and if you’re up for more tourist attractions and a bustling atmosphere than Bowness-on-Windermere is a short drive away, as is the home of Beatrix Potter, Hawkshead. Apparently Christmas at Lakeside Hotel is particularly atmospheric with log fires, decked halls and lavish food all against the stunning backdrop of Lake Windermere. The clientele were a little older than us but this wouldn’t stop me suggesting the hotel as a destination to base yourself on a trip to the Lake District.

Ullswater

I am married to what you could call a ‘keen motorist’. As we drove over the Kirkstone Pass to Ullswater, James declared he was having the best drive of his life. I felt like I was on a ride at Alton Towers but tried to keep quiet taking in the epic scenery as we drove along the sweeping roads. At an altitude of 1,489 feet the Kirkstone Pass links Ambleside to Patterdale. The views could be described as “Derbyshire-meets-New Zealand” with towering peaks, high grazing cattle and patches of wild flowers. Both walkers, cyclists and sheep can be found along the roadside enjoying the vistas.

Our time in Patterdale was mostly spent on party prep, celebrating and then clearing up the inevitable debris from a very successful birthday bash. We did manage to get a away for a few hours to climb aboard the Ullswater Steamer for a lake cruise and take in the spectacular panoramic scenery on the Glenridding to Pooley Bridge sailing. Friends and family have explored this area on foot and there are some amazing walks on offer to suit all levels of abilities. You can hop on and off the Steamer to make your way around the Ullswater valley.
Lots of our party guests also visited Aira Force Waterfall (said to have inspired many of Wordworth’s works). A short brisk climb is rewarded with an impressive water fall and yet again more amazing views.

Our stay in the Lakes was fleeting yet massively fulfilling. One thing’s for sure – We will most definitely be back. I would love to hear your suggestions for walks to try and scenes to see when we return, (very soon I hope). Where do you like to eat and stay when you visit the Lakes?